Building/Fire Code Updates

The Department of Public Safety recently announced that the Connecticut State Fire Safety Code and the Connecticut Building Code have been updated and adopted into CT state regulations.

 The Building Department has been actively notifying contractors and homeowners of the pending changes for the past 6 months with flyers and updated information on the town’s website.  

 During 2005, the Fire Marshal’s Office advised agencies at all annual inspections of the pending code changes.  They are now distributing the code change information to these facilities and working with them to develop code compliance plans and schedules.

 Some changes that directly impact local residences in a visible way include the requirement for Carbon Monoxide Detectors outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms when interior alterations, repairs or additions requiring a permit occur.  This is in addition to the existing requirements for smoke detectors. 

 Besides state mandated training, our officials have conducted in house code review study sessions on a weekly basis since this past September.  Copies of the new codes are available for review on the 2^nd floor of Town Hall. 

 A “Your Home in Windsor” information pamphlet is currently being developed by the departments to be distributed at public locations and through local realtors.  For more information, call 285-1960.

Town Planner Appointment

Following a comprehensive search process, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Eric Barz to the position of Town Planner.  Mr. Barz is currently a Senior Planner for Planimetrics, LLC in Avon, CT, a position he has held since 2002.  Prior to that, Mr. Barz was the Director of Community Development for the Town of Canton for seven years, serving as its Town Planner and Zoning Enforcement Officer;   He was also integrally involved with economic development activities while in Canton. His appointment as Windsor’s Town Planner follows the retirement of Mario Zavarella, who served 37 years as Windsor’s Town Planner.   Mr. Barz served as Assistant Town Planner under Zavarella for six years from 1989 to 1995.  

 I am confident Eric will be a great addition to Windsor’s Development staff.  His experience in the private and public sector, as well as his knowledge of the Windsor community will be valuable assets to our organization.

 Mr. Barz will begin his tenure with the town in early March. 

FEMA Eligibility Update

As a follow-up to an item from the January 17^th Town Manager’s Report, I would like to announce that Hartford County municipalities have now been included in the Disaster Area designated by FEMA following the floods of October 14-15, 2005.  FEMA staff met with representatives of Hartford region municipalities last week to review the application process. 

 Up to 75% of our actual storm response and clean up costs are reimbursable.  We may also be eligible for reimbursements of permanent repairs and mitigation efforts – these last two are more competitive in nature, and not guaranteed.  

 In addition, the Small Business Administration has extended the deadline for low interest loans for homeowners, renters and business owners that experienced damage from  the floods of Oct 14, 15, 2005 until March 23, 2006.  Loans with interest as low as 2.687% for 30 year term are available.  Applications should be sought through www.sba.gov/disaster. 

Assessment Reductions and Benefits Guide

Tax reductions and benefits are available to qualified Windsor residents meeting the income and/or age guidelines as determined by State of Connecticut regulations.  Examples of those who may qualify are veterans, senior citizens, the disabled, including those who may be serving active duty in the Armed Forces, legally blind individuals, and individuals currently receiving a disability pension from the Social Security Administration.  Printed copies of the guidelines are being produced and will be available at the Senior Center, libraries, Town Hall and on the town’s website within a week.  To learn more, call the Town Assessor’s Office at 285-1816.